Another person adds: “So sad to hear this. She was a soap legend. She will be missed. RIP.”
A fourth comments: “So sad! I have watched her in General Hospital since I was a little girl and am now in my 50s.”
General Hospital is the longest-running series produced in Hollywood, premiering in 1963.
The popular TV drama’s executive producer, Frank Valentini, shared the saddening news via Instagram on January 12.
His statement reads: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson.
“Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on General Hospital alone and, just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew.
“I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit, and incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”
Charleson’s colleagues have also taken to social media following the devastating announcement.
Wally Kurth writes: “Oh Lord… this is a tough one. Leslie Charleson was my castmate for 34 years. Leslie… was just cool.
“Never let anything bother her on the set… no drama. I don’t think I ever heard her raise her voice. But she was no push over her either.
“She was tough but vulnerable. A beautiful soul. I loved hearing Leslie laugh. She had a hearty laugh.”
Kurth also thanks Charleson for her friendship and talent, and for sharing her soul with the world.
While co-star Tamara Braun shares: “You loved animals, you loved an adventure, you loved life. Your quick wit and sense of humor always had me laughing loudly or biting my lip to stop.
“When we worked together, you would have me laughing in between takes and crying during them. It was always a privilege to get to share the screen with you. Oh, Lester… Lefty… you are already so missed.”
Charleson had health issues over the past few years, leading her to limit her time on the ABC soap.
According to Variety, the beloved actress died following a short illness.
She had reportedly suffered several falls which affected her mobility but did not dampen her spirits. Just a week before her passing, she is said to have been hospitalized after one such fall.
